Okay, you are fairly new to the modeling scene or want to enter into the professional modeling world. Here is some information to help you look at the world of professional modeling. Keyword is 'professional' - you can still do modeling for fun in which case the following information isn't relevant to your goals! This page is for those that want to model professionally or at the very least create an income from modeling and are new to the modeling industry.

We will look at several things that will help you begin. These are also things that a potential agent or manager will look at or need to know. This webpage is only a simple primer to give you an idea of the basics and some processes. There are other steps and ways to begin. Your photographer, or consultant/manager, will take you through steps that will likely be similar to the following.

What market? It's important to decide on a few potential areas that you either have strengths in or desire to do (some additional information on styles are HERE).

Height - this is a major factor. Below is guideline of generally accepted standards. Notice that this is only a GUIDELINE and will give you an idea of how height generally plays out in the modeling styles.

Let's address one major issue - professional modeling is WORK. Those new to the industry would be amazed at how much they don't know about something that may appear easy such as a simple pose. Professional models can make it LOOK easy but it is a result and combination of experience, practice, coaching, and of course desire to suceed. Top models can earn top dollar for reasons that goes well beyond just their physical looks. They have worked very hard to get where they are!

Preliminary profile sheet. First Steps to the process to help you with some decision - this will be used to examine how you look on camera, identify strengths, weaknesses, flaws (everyone has + & - features!). It will also who you what you can work on improving, you best views, etc. Doing these would not be considered a "TFP" session but a beginning consultation shoot. The quality of the images isn't critical.

-Typical shoot for this involves NO makeup and a swimsuit or similar attire.

-These shots (see statistics sheet link below for a list of basic shots) must be done by a competent photographer and not 'snapshots' because the lighting must be properly done to show each feature of the intended area being viwed.

-Typical arrangement for free consultations on PrelimProf shots: the photographer will expect you to bring your own film or buy the film roll at the time of the shoot (LiteFocus normally uses Kodak "portfolio" style film, VC160. Cost is $6-$8 per roll). Any brand 35mm film will do but if you bring your own get 200 or 400 film speed in 12 or 24 exposure rolls. You will then be handed the roll after the consultation shoot so that you can get it developed (getting 2 prints of each shot).

CLICK HERE to open the form for the statistics sheet. Print the sheet and give to the photographer that will be doing your profile shoot / consultation.

This will give you a good start to planning your modeling career / aspirations.

Special Skills - make sure and let your photographer (or consultant) know any special skills you might have! IMPORTANT information can be obtained from their knowing such skills you may have. Here is a FORM SHEET that you can use to give to your photographer. It may be helpful to provide this information to them prior to an actual shoot such as when you do your preliminary profile shots.

Using examples in everyday life - Look at magazines or photos that you could see yourself doing. Poses or creations that you think would be your 'style' and interest. For a photo session it isn't unusual for someone to bring in photos/magazine tear outs to show the look they want to try and achieve.

Practice - seems basic doesn't it? But many people new to modeling have not even practiced at all! You CANNOT just show up for a glamour or fashion style photo shoot and expect poses to be natural! Practice in front of a mirror, look at fashion magazines for ideas on expressions and poses you like. Try and imitate them and see the results in the mirror (it will take some practice!). Practice not just the facial expressions but other things too, like the hand placement, foot placement, etc.

With the above simple steps you are much better prepared in both decision making as well as planning your first photo shoot.

The photographer will help you in posing and arrangement, BUT, if it is a TFP session he/she is also there to try new equipment or get some needed shots for his/her own portfolio. You cannot realistically expect the photographer to provide you fantastic shots if you haven't practiced or have some idea of what YOUR best features are. If you are being paid the photographer will EXPECT you to know at least the basics on posing (such as feet placement, hand placement, posture, head tilt styles, shoulder tilt basics, etc.).

note: again this is for professional models - if this is for fun or just part-time then the photographer will be more than happy to experiment with you and help you try different poses and looks. Remember - this page is for those wanting to do modeling professionally!

Here are a few practice exercises you can do. Believe it or not, practicing these can made a HUGE difference in your photos on the day of the shoot. Even if you are not planning on a professional career in modeling these exercises can, at the very least, help you get some good photographs out of your session. Also if the photographer asks for a certain 'look', you'll be ready!

Facial Expressions: using a mirror - practice conveying the following emotions. Then practice using JUST your eyes (do not change your facial features, only your eyes). In fashion and Glamour the eyes are very important. Using a mirror also helps because you will be seeing the same direction that the photographer wants you to look (normally) which is right at the camera.

Practice the poses that you like from magazines and publications. Pay attention to the placement of every aspect, from the feet, knees, waist, elbows, wrists, fingers, shoulders, head, eyes, and mouth. Look at the angles and placement and try to duplicate them.

Ready to know more? Great! The best thing to do is to call and request a consultation. You can then ask questions and get some additional information.

If LiteFocus contributes to any part of your success we will be very pleased. Our goal is to help you succeed in whatever area of modeling that you desire.

GOOD LUCK IN YOUR ASPIRATIONS TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL MODEL!